I have a strange problem in 4 outlets in one room of my house. It seems that the potential between hot and neutral is correct (about 118 volts). But when I test hot to ground I measure about 73 volts and neutral to ground is about 45 volts -- adding up to about the same total of 118.
Seems like some kind of short to the ground.
However the problem only exists on these 4 outlets and one wall switch (which doesn't appear to be connected to anything). The other outlets on the circuit are normal -- 118 volts hot to ground, zero volts neutral to ground.
The wires feeding the outlets and switch box are visible in the basement, but I haven't yet attempted to trace them -- but it does appear the problem outlets are in sequence. I don't know yet if the good outlets are closer to or further from the circuit breakers.
Anybody have hints as to what the problem might be or how to fix it without rewiring the whole circuit?
Seems like some kind of short to the ground.
However the problem only exists on these 4 outlets and one wall switch (which doesn't appear to be connected to anything). The other outlets on the circuit are normal -- 118 volts hot to ground, zero volts neutral to ground.
The wires feeding the outlets and switch box are visible in the basement, but I haven't yet attempted to trace them -- but it does appear the problem outlets are in sequence. I don't know yet if the good outlets are closer to or further from the circuit breakers.
Anybody have hints as to what the problem might be or how to fix it without rewiring the whole circuit?